So transferring properties with existing mortgages into an LLC without selling them to the LLC is a common strategy for most real estate investors seeking to protect personal assets and possibly enjoy certain tax benefits.

And are there any tax implications from removing myself from the deed now?

., you may consider conditionally approving with a higher security deposit (or alternatively, use an insurance policy - "fee in lieu of deposit"), first and last month's rent.

In most states if your trying to help them stay in the house and are charging them a fee to help them then you need to be a licensed foreclosure consultant. 

The property has since increased 82% in value, we use it frequently as a family for vacations and weekend get aways, greatly minimized my RMD requirement, break even each year on my taxes, etc.

Taxes run about $600 a year.  

Also, do I really want to pay those legal fees to pursue while having to sue a friend?

, and the absolute worst thing is the fact that I found out they charge their management fee whether the tenant pays or not!!!

How does the property tax work if I live in CA and want to purchase out of state? 

I need help walking through the potential tax implications of those sales.